Thursday, 3 December 2009

My name is Laura, I am 30 and live in Cambridge. I have lived in Cambridge for almost five years and feel very much at home here. I am very happy to be part of Handmade for their December show!

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I have sewn for many years, and have drawn for as long as I can remember. An illustrator at heart, I like sewing and stitching mainly as a hobby, and for some of my products at Handmade i have been able to combine the two. Randomly, I do believe that my childhood interest in cross stitch led me onto my current career in online gaming as a pixel artist.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

I've read comics from Japan since my teens, but have always been interested in bold and bright comic book artwork, illustration and animation. I like Lowbrow art as much as my woodblock prints, so I have combined all my influences when making badges, canvas paintings, greetings cards, comics and bags to sell.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

Peeko Crochet looks super-cute, I squealed out loud when I saw the name of their little snail is "Monsieur Slow". A bit embarassing for me, but hey. And Trash Chic's aprons look like they are to die for!

What is your favourite piece?

I like the girls on my bags equally (so there is no fighting amongst the ranks!), though the girl who looks like she has been listening to too much Mötley Crüe is a possible contender for my favourite-throne!

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

I really look forward to seeing what cute toys and jewellery there will be!

Tuesday, 1 December 2009

I'm Katie, I'm 33, originally from Wales, I have lived in Cambridge for 11 years, i live in a busy neighbourhood with my husband, 2 kids, 2 cats and 3 chickens.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I studied fashion at uni but ended up working happily as a graphic designer for years, however I craved something creative that didn't involve a computer screen. I have always loved fabric and have a large stash after years of foraging in charity/vintage shops so thought I'd better get to work and make use of it! I love escaping to my sewing room and creating away, it reminds me of spending hours in my bedroom as a child, drawing and making.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

I am constantly inspired and impressed by the huge online presence of women with such full, busy lives but still managing to remain creative and crafty. I love the Australian online community of crafters and their vibe. I also love all things Scandinavian from folklore art and textiles to modern stuff. One of my biggest influences is also my kids, their drawings and imagination and their response to my work is always spot on!

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

Inkling Prints textiles look right up my street, the prints look really fresh so I'll look forward to seeing them in the flesh. Poor Robin's colourful buttons are beautiful too.

What is your favourite piece?

Probably my collection of owls, they are all different but each has the softest organic cotton fleece back, very tactile. Also my patchwork christmas stockings, very festive without being too twee!

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?